Maxwell E. Smith

The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to Maxwell E. Smith, Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Gesnes, northwest of Verdun, France, October 3, 1918. In an attack on German strong points, Sergeant Smith was wounded early in the action by a shell fragment, but after dressing his wound himself he immediately rejoined his organization. Upon hearing that his company commander had been killed, he reported this fact to the regimental post of command, and although he was urged to go to the rear for medical aid, he again went forward and assumed command of the company, remaining in charge until the following morning. His courage and disregard for danger were an inspiration to his men and a thorough demonstration of his loyalty and devotion to duty.